Giganti competed on the Fox reality show’s 16th season last year. He had worked as a chef for five years at a South Philadelphia restaurant called Birra.

“It is with a heavy heart that we celebrate the life and mourn passing of Paulie Giganti,” the restaurant said in a Facebook post Friday.

“Paulie came to us as a line cook and eventually elevated to executive chef. His care for our kitchen was only exceeded by his personality and love of life. We would not be the restaurant we are today with Chef Paulie’s efforts.

“Our heart and condolences go out to his family and friends here in Philly, Pittsburgh, and of course, Brooklyn.”

Police officers were called to Giganti’s home by a neighbor who smelled a foul odor, according to TMZ.